Connector

Abstract

A connector for underwater connection of two fluid carrying conduits comprises initial engagement means to provide an initial engagement between a male component and a female receptacle. The final connection is made by operating a drive which reacts against the initial engagement means to move the component into a fully connected position. A number of sealing means may be provided to enable a pressure tight connection.

1. A connector comprising a male component and a female receptacle, wherein the male component is to be connected into the female receptacle to establish a fluid flow path between the male component and the female receptacle,
 the male component having means for making initial engagement with the receptacle and means for pulling itself fully into the receptacle by pushing against the initial engagement means, and the female receptacle comprising a body with a tubular bore open at both ends to accept the male component from either end, and a branch passage between the ends of the bore and opening into the bore, 
 wherein the male component has a central bore, a closed end and a lateral opening or openings at one point around its circumference, the lateral openings being adapted to communicate with the branch passage when the male and female components are fully engaged with one another to establish a flow path between said central bore of the male component, through one or more of the said lateral openings and into said branch passage. 
 
   
   
     2. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the male component is at the end of a flexible hose and the female receptacle is part of a manifold assembly for a subsea pipeline. 
   
   
     3. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the male component has means by which a remotely operated subsea vehicle can grip and manipulate the male component. 
   
   
     4. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the female receptacle has an outwardly flared end to assist in guiding the male component into the receptacle. 
   
   
     5. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the male component has a rounded end to assist in guiding the male component into the receptacle. 
   
   
     6. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein sealing means are provided between the male and female components in the frilly engaged position. 
   
   
     7. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the means for making initial engagement with the receptacle comprises bayonet slots on the female receptacle, and radial projections on the male component. 
   
   
     8. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the means for making initial engagement with the receptacle comprises expanding collets on the male component which expand to lock behind ridges on the female receptacle. 
   
   
     9. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the means for pulling the male component fully into the receptacle comprise a rack and pinion arrangement working between a part of the male component which is initially engaged with the female receptacle, and a part of the male component which incorporates a fluid flow passage and is to be driven fully into the receptacle. 
   
   
     10. A connector as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the means for pulling the male component frilly into the receptacle comprises hydraulic rams working between a part of the male component which is initially engaged with the female receptacle, and a part of the male component which incorporates a fluid flow passage and is to be driven fully into the receptacle.